SAD stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder. This is a common condition that is felt on the onset of winter. It happens as a result of change in season and is known to have to do with the body’s natural ability to produce melatonin. When the seasons change our production of melatonin is shifted and as a result we can land up feeling lethargic, down, apathetic and it can mimic signs of depression.
What makes SAD different to depression is the fact that it is something that becomes predictable. Every time winter kicks in, the blues tend to set in too. There are very similar symptoms to depression, however the fact that there is the light at the end of tunnel (spring) allows us to pull out of the funk a lot easier than regular depression.
How do we treat SAD:
Well there are a number of ways depending on the severity. It is suggested that light therapy is the first port of call. You can actually rent or buy a light box and sitting with the light on your face first thing in the morning for 30 minutes makes an enormous difference. Depending on what time of day the blues hit it can also be done at night. Other forms of treatment can be going out doors into nature. We are very lucky here in South Africa that even though we experience some chilly months, the sun does still manage to come out. Getting some good old vitamin D from the sun on a walk can really make all the difference. Lastly CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) is also known to have a more long-lasting affect. It entails learning new ways of thinking and acting allowing you to deal with winter months differently and easier.
If you find you are more down than usual around these winter months, know that you are not alone, SAD is a real condition. Starting a journal is a good way to pick up patterns as well as it allows you to get out of your own head.
